It is not uncommon that those with low self-esteem or self-worth will turn to drugs in order to alleviate such feelings. These people are escaping the feelings of inadequacy, poor self-image, and inability to cope with the demands of day-to-day life which have all proven to be too much to handle for them. They are looking for an escape or a solution through self-medicating in order to overcome such problems and to appear and feel what they deem to be ‘normal’. Suffering from low self-esteem and self-worth causes a person to hold a very low opinion of themselves and to consider themselves ‘unworthy’.
However, this does not mean that they think of others in the same way, in fact is generally the opposite. They will help others at their own expense as they place a higher value on their lives and life choices than their own, seeing their needs and desires as more important than their own. This is a dangerous state of mind for someone with addiction. It means they will determine the needs of their addiction far more important than their life. The lives of others and will assume that addiction is what they are worthy of.
Alcoholism has a Negative Impact on Self Esteem
This will only further damage their self-esteem as the addiction will make them feel even worse about themselves as it puts into question people’s moral and ethical codes as the addiction takes over their lives. It is a cyclical trap as the greater the negative impact on self-esteem. This in turn perpetuates the need to ‘self-medicate’. This trap is not easy to escape from but with the right guidance it is possible to re-build the person’s self-worth. Therefore let them know that a life without addiction is possible. That they are worthy of living a happy and healthy life.
In order to increase one’s self esteem, one needs to do reputable things. As human beings we all have universal human needs. The most effective way in order to increase self-esteem is to make sure these needs are met. One’s self-esteem can only be improved by the individual; relying on somebody else to make you feel better is only a temporary solution and will not be long lasting.
Raising Self Esteem is Possible
Raising one’s self-esteem is possible for everyone and though they may not believe it, addicts too. Our self-esteem improves naturally as a by-product of our efforts to ensure our basic human needs are met. In order to achieve such effects the person is required to make a considerable and sustained effort to live a healthy and happy lifestyle. Such needs that need to be fulfilled are as follows: the need for a sense of control. The need to look after your body, the need to give and receive attention, the need for creativity and stimulation, the need for meaning, purpose and goals, the need for a sense of safety and security, the need for intimacy and a connection to others, the need for a sense of status and recognition from others and the need for a connection to something greater than ourselves (such as God).
Psychological Effects
Addicts in recovery often forget that the psychological effects of addiction are just as, if not more important than the physical effects. Most notably when it comes to relapsing. If the addict has acknowledged the reasons why they abuse substances. Have had the opportunity to rebuild their self-esteem and self-image there will be a much smaller chance of relapse.
Entering a long-term rehabilitation facility will mean that the addict is offered counselling which will help them to identify the specific areas with which they need the most attention as well as addressing the physical side of the problem. The addict must remember that the footwork is their responsibility. Entering alcohol rehab programme will give them a big hand up. Ultimately the decision to stay clean and sober is up to the individual.
The Haynes Clinic is a rehabilitation clinic which offers detox from alcohol and drugs (including prescription medicine) and counselling.
For free and confidential advice call 01462 851414
